Oklahoma vs. Oklahoma State: 5 Things We Learned from the Cowboys' Win

In a 44-10 rout, Oklahoma State clinched its first outright Big 12 championship and its first win over arch-rival Oklahoma in eight years.

The team played their best all-around game of the year and proved they are worthy to be considered among the nation's best.

Here are the five things we learned about them from this big win.

Not Intimidated

Oklahoma had won this game eight times in a row before this year.

By winning in the fashion that they did, Oklahoma State proved that they are not intimidated by anyone in the country. They believe they can play with anyone and showed that confidence in their domination of the Sooners.

It's that confidence that makes them one of the best squads in the country.

They Can Run the Ball

Oklahoma State running backs Jeremy Smith and Joseph Randle combined for 246 yards and four touchdowns.

For a team that is known for its high-octane passing offense, that's a very impressive day on the ground. The battle in the trenches was key. The Oklahoma State offensive line had a clear advantage against the Oklahoma defensive front all night.

The Cowboys showed tonight they are not just a finesse team. They can run the ball outside and inside, for speed and power.

The Do Play Good Defense

Oklahoma State held one of the best offenses in the country in Oklahoma to just 10 points, seven of which came during junk time.

They also forced five turnovers and bent but didn't break. The Cowboys played their best defensive game of the season and did so their way, by keeping the ball in front of them and forcing mistakes.

However, they also changed things up by blitzing on several third downs, something they haven't done all year.

Mike Gundy Is a Top-Tier Head Coach

Mike Gundy had two weeks to prepare for this game, and it showed.

His team was more motivated and better prepared than the team across from them. He and his staff also out-coached Bob Stoops and his staff.

Gundy topped it off by powerfully declaring that his team deserved a spot in the national championship.

They Deserve to Be in the National Championship Conversation

Am I saying they deserve to jump Alabama? Not necessarily.

I am saying that they are worthy of the conversation, though. This team has five wins over Top 25 BCS teams and seven over the BCS Top 50. Alabama doesn't.

They also have won their conference outright, which is something Alabama had no opportunity to do.

This team must be considered for a national championship berth.